Pediatric lead poisoning rare in U.S., but caution still urged for parents

Published: Wednesday, August 15, 2007

BETH AARONAVALANCHE-JOURNAL

Mattel Inc. has recalled millions of toys because they are believed to contain lead paint.

No injuries have been reported with any of the products involved in the recall, but because lead is a toxic substance, parents are encouraged to be cautious.

According to the National Safety Council, prolonged exposure to lead can produce nerve disorders, muscle and joint pain and memory and concentration problems.

Symptoms of lead poisoning include irritability, loss of appetite, weight loss, sluggishness, abdominal pain, vomiting, constipation and unusual paleness from anemia, according to the Mayo Clinic.

The best treatment for lead poisoning is to stop exposure.

Fatal pediatric lead poisoning is rare in the U.S. Multiple public health measures have reduced blood-lead levels in the population, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The Lubbock Health Department used to employ a lead inspector but no longer keeps track of lead poisoning statistics.

The main cause of elevated blood-lead levels in children is deteriorated lead paint in older homes.

The CDC recommends children living in homes with lead paint be tested for lead poisoning at 6 months and then yearly as long as they live in that home. A blood test can determine how much lead is in a person's blood and estimate a person's exposure to the metal, according to the CDC.

Lead levels in the blood are measured in micrograms per deciliter (mcg/dL). An unsafe level is 10 mcg/dL or higher - a guideline set by the CDC.

Lead is used in the production of batteries, ammunition, metal products and devices to shield X-rays, according to the CDC. Because of health concerns, lead from gasoline, paints and ceramic products, caulking and pipe solder has been dramatically reduced in recent years.

In 2005, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced a new enforcement policy to reduce the potential for health risks from lead in children's metal jewelry.

Commission staff recommended that companies selling children's jewelry in the U.S. keep lead levels as low as possible - below 600 parts per million.